Financial Literacy Books for Parents

Pre-K    K-2   3-6   7-9   10-12    Parent Guides

 

Pre-K

The Berenstain Bears & Mama's New JobThe Berenstain Bears & Mama's New Job
by Stan & Jan Berenstain
When Mama becomes a "business bear," the way work gets done around the house changes. Other members of the Bear family discover how to help more.

 

The Berenstain Bears Get The Gimmes The Berenstain Bears Get The Gimmes
by Stan & Jan Berenstain
Can Mama and Papa Bear find a way to keep the cubs from begging at the store?

 

 

The Berenstain Bears' Trouble With MoneyThe Berenstain Bears' Trouble With Money
by Stan & Jan Berenstain
Brother and sister Bear spend money as soon as they get it. Mama and Papa Bear want the cubs to understand that there is more to know about money than just how to spend it.

 

Bunny MoneyBunny Money
by Rosemary Wells
Max and Ruby take the bus downtown to buy a birthday gift for their grandma, but they spend so much money on emergencies that they don't have enough for bus fare home.

 

Carl Goes ShoppingCarl Goes Shopping
by Alexandra Day
A dog named Carl goes to the store with his master. He watches the baby while the master goes shopping. Carl cares for the baby as they explore different parts of the store.

 

Curious George At The LaundromatCurious George At The Laundromat
by Margret Rey
George tries to use the washing machine and makes a mess.


How Much is That Doggie in the Window How Much is That Doggie in the Window
by Bob Merrill
Longing to buy a special puppy, a boy tries to earn the money he needs but ends up spending it on family members, who ultimately surprise him with a special gift.

 

Just Shopping With Mom Just Shopping With Mom
by Mercer Mayer
Little Critter is having a ton of trouble with his little sister. When the family goes shopping, his sister pulls groceries off the shelves, finds a way to get lost, and cries when she can't have all the candy in the candy aisle. The day is a disaster – until Little Critter's mother invents a way to put a smile back on everyone's face.

Lucky the Golden Goose Lucky the Golden Goose
by John Wrenn
A goose learns to increase his pumpkin seeds (and wealth) by planting more and more pumpkins.

 

 

The Money TreeThe Money Tree
by Sarah Stewart
In summer the leaves on the strange tree growing in Miss McGillicuddy's yard are harvested by many people, but when Miss McGillicuddy thinks about needing firewood for the winter, she realizes the tree may have another use.

 

Mrs. PirateMrs. Pirate
by Nick Sharratt
Mrs. Pirate goes shopping. She buys items for the ship. This is a great book for children who are just starting to read.

 

Paddy's Pay Day Paddy's Pay Day
by Alexandra Day
Paddy is a dog who does circus acts. On his day off, he goes shopping. You can tell what's important to Paddy by what he buys with the money he earned.

 

The Smart Little $aver The Smart Little $aver
by Matt Fuller
Alex and Justin learn the importance of a piggy bank when Alex's dog gets hurt.

 

 

Tom And Annie Go ShoppingTom And Annie Go Shopping
by Barry Smith
Tom and Annie go shopping for a lot of items. This book asks you to find the items on the shelves. Shopping isn't as easy as it looks.

 

Working Cotton Working Cotton
by Shirley Ann Wilson
Have you ever wondered what it's like to pick cotton? This book is about a day in the life of a family who work together in the cotton fields.

 

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K-2

A Bargain for Frances A Bargain for Frances
by Russell Hoban
Frances saves and saves for a china tea set. Her friend Thelma tricks her into buying an old plastic tea set. Thelma says there are now "backsies" on the bargain. Frances finds a way to get what she really wants.

 

A Chair for my MotherA Chair For My Mother
by Vera B. Williams
A family loses all their furniture in a fire. They set a goal to buy a chair for mother. Find out how the family, neighbors and friends work together for success.

 

A Dollar for PennyA Dollar for Penny
by Julie Glass & Joy Allen
Penny learns about currency when she sets up a lemonade stand to earn money for her mother's birthday card.

 

A High-Fiving Gift for MomA High-Fiving Gift For Mom
by Judy Bradley
At the annual teachers' fair, Christopher faces temptations such as ice cream and face painting while trying to stretch his money far enough to buy a Mother's Day gift.

 

A Job for Jenny ArcherA Job for Jenny Archer
by Ellen Conford
Convinced that her family is poor because her parents refuse to get her a horse or a swimming pool, nine-year-old Jenny Archer follows her own path to making money, including a plunge into real estate that puts her home on the market.

 

A Quarter from the Tooth FairyA Quarter from the Tooth Fairy
by Caren Holtzman
A boy has trouble thinking of ways he can spend the quarter he got from the tooth fairy. He learns about money and the different coin combination that make up a quarter.

 

Alexander Who Used To Be Rich Last SundayAlexander Who Used To Be Rich Last Sunday
by Judith Viorst
When Alexander and his money are quickly parted, he realizes how many things a dollar can do.

 

 

Angelina’s Lucky PennyAngelina’s Lucky Penny
by James Mason & Helen Craig
When Angelina finds a lucky penny, she decides that she no longer needs to practice her ballet.

 

 

Annie’s Pet Annie’s Pet
by Barbara Brenner
On her way to the pet shop to buy an animal with her birthday money, Annie buys a toy, a collar, a dish and a leash, then discovers she has no money left for a pet.

 

Apple Picking Time Apple Picking Time
by Michele Benoit Slawson
All the townspeople work in the orchards at harvest time. Anna sets a goal to pick a whole basket of apples herself.

 

Arthur’s Funny Money Arthur’s Funny Money
by Lillian Hoban
When Violet has trouble with numbers and Arthur is penniless, they go into business and solve both of their problems.

 

Arthur’s Pet BusinessArthur’s Pet Business
by Marc Brown
Arthur's determination to prove he is responsible enough to have a puppy brings him a menagerie of animals to care for.

 

Arthur's TV TroubleArthur’s TV Trouble
by Marc Brown
Follow Arthur’s efforts to get money to buy a product he sees promoted on TV. He considers his current savings, tries to get an advance on his allowance, and does jobs in the neighborhood.

 

The Bathwater Gang Gets Down to BusinessThe Bathwater Gang Gets Down to Business
by Jerry Spinelli
When the Bathwater Gang fails to make money with its pet-cleaning business, Bertie comes up with a slightly dishonest idea to ensure success.

 

Bea And Mr. JonesBea And Mr. Jones
by Amy Schwarz
Bea and her father switch places. He goes to school. She goes to work.

 

 

Bea And Mr. JonesBen Goes Into Business
by Marilyn Hirsch
A boy in the early 1900's makes 60 cents with a 10 cent investment at Coney Island.

 

 

Benny’s PenniesBenny’s Pennies
by Pat Brisson
Benny sets off in the morning with five shiny new pennies to spend and eventually buys something for everyone.

 

BrothersBrothers
by Florence B. Freedman
Two brothers inherit their father's land and split it evenly. Find out how they make their father's wish come true.

 

Bunny MoneyBunny Money
by Rosemary Wells
Max and Ruby take the bus downtown to buy a birthday gift for their grandma, but they spend so much money on emergencies that they don't have enough for bus fare home.

 

Carlos and the CarnivalCarlos and the Carnival
by Jan Romero Stevens
Carlos ignores his father's advice about being careful how he spends his money at the carnival, and soon his pockets are empty.

 

The Case of the Shrunken AllowanceThe Case of the Shrunken Allowance
by Joanne Roeklin
Mike and his friends try to figure out why the money in his allowance jar appears to be shrinking. Includes related math activities.

 

Chicken SundayChicken Sunday
by Patricia Polacco
Two brothers and their Polish-American friend want to purchase a special gift for the brothers’ grandmother. Mr. Kodinski suggests they make Psyanky eggs and sell them in his store.

 

The Cinnamon Hen's Autumn DayThe Cinnamon Hen's Autumn Day
by Sandra Dutton
Is it more fun to rake your own leaves or have Mr. Rabbit's lawn service do it for you?

 

 

Clever CatClever Cat
by Peter Collington
When Mr. and Mrs. Ford discover that Tibbs the cat can get his own food, they give him a house key and a credit card. When the cat begins to use the credit card for fine dining and movies, his card is taken away and the family tells the cat to get a job.

 

Cranberry SummerCranberry Summer
Wende & Harry Devlin
When the circus moves on from Cranberryport and leave a donkey behind, Maggie and Mr. Whiskers try to find the money to feed her.

 

Deena’s Lucky Penny Deena’s Lucky Penny
by Barbara De Rubertis
While pondering how to buy her mother a birthday present with no money, Deena finds a penny and follows a process of discovery about money.

 

Do I Need It? or Do I Want It?: Making Budgeting Choices
by Jennifer S. Larson
Do you plan how much money you'll use to buy candy? or how much you'll save for a new video game? Then you're budgeting! A budget is a plan for spending and saving. Budgets help people decide how to use their money wisely. What do you want? And how can you make a budget? Read this book to find out.

Erandi's BraidsErandi's Braids
by Antonio Hernandez Madrigal
Erandi's mother needs a new fishing net and also wants to buy Erandi her birthday gift, but is unable to due to their limited income. Erandi recognizes that her braids are valuable and makes a decision.

 

Etta Can Get ItEtta Can Get It
by Phyliss Adams
The Troll family attempts to earn money by working various jobs. After trying a car wash, lawn service and pet grooming services unsuccessfully, the family finds success performing tricks and selling cakes.

 

Follow the MoneyFollow the Money
by Lorene Leedy
A freshly minted quarter chattily narrates this lively look at currency including stops at the grocery store and a boy's piggy bank, among other destinations.

 

For RentFor Rent
by Charles E. Martin
Island children spruce up a little shed in a cove and turn it into rental property. They discover that being landlords is hard work but the rent from the shed helps pay for a class trip to Washington DC.

 

Fox on the JobFox on the Job
by James Marshall
Fox tries to earn the money for a new bicycle.

 

 

The GiftThe Gift
by Aliana Brodmann
A young girl cannot decide what to buy with her Hanukkah money. Her decision is touching and surprising.

 

 

The Gift Of The Magi The Gift Of The Magi
by O. Henry
This is a classic tale of love, giving and sacrifice.

 

 

he Giving TreeThe Giving Tree
by Shel Silverstein
This is a sensitive tale of giving (and taking) until there is no more to give — or so it seems.

 


The Greedy PythonThe Greedy Python
by Richard Bucklye & Eric Carle
The greedy python eats everything, from a mouse to an elephant. Nothing is too big for this snake! Children and adults alike will enjoy this humorous tale of a snake too greedy for his own good!

 

Horton Hatches an Egg
by Dr. Seuss
Horton is such a good friend. He donates his time to hatching an egg for a friend.

 

How Much is That Doggie in the Window How Much is That Doggie in the Window
by Bob Merrill
Longing to buy a special puppy, a boy tries to earn the money he needs but ends up spending it on family members, who ultimately surprise him with a special gift.

 

How the 2nd Grade Got $8,205.50 to Visit the Statue of LibertyHow the 2nd Grade Got $8,205.50 to Visit the Statue of Liberty
by Nathan Zimelman
The second grade tries a variety of schemes to raise money for a trip to the Statue of Liberty.

 

 

If You Made A MillionIf You Made A Million
by David M. Schwartz
Describes the various forms money can take, including coins, paper money and personal checks, and how it can be used to make purchases, pay off loans or build interest in the bank.

 

It's A Habit Sammy Rabbit It's A Habit Sammy Rabbit
by Sam X. Renick
Sammy Rabbit learns to save carrots for a rainy day.

 

 

Jelly Beans for Sale Jelly Beans for Sale
by Bruce McMillan
An introduction to counting and numbers features delicious illustrations of colorful jelly beans and clasps of four kinds of coins as well as an informative history of the jelly bean.

 

Jerome The BabysitterJerome The Babysitter
by Eileen Christelow
Jerome goes on his first baby-sitting job. The kids play tricks on him. Jerome is surprised when he gets them all to bed.

 

Just Saving My Money
by Mercer Mayer
When Little Critter® wants a new skateboard, Dad tells him that he needs to save his own money to buy it! From feeding the dog to selling lemonade, Little Critter learns the value of a dollar.

 

Just Shopping With Mom Just Shopping With Mom
by Mercer Mayer
Little Critter is having a ton of trouble with his little sister. When the family goes shopping, his sister pulls groceries off the shelves, finds a way to get lost, and cries when she can't have all the candy in the candy aisle. The day is a disaster – until Little Critter's mother invents a way to put a smile back on everyone's face.

Kids Money Book Kids Money Book
by Patricia Byers & Julia Preston
All about money for children.

 

 

King MidasKing Midas
by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This book is based on the Greek legend of King Midas. King Midas was a greedy king who wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. He got his wish, but found out that some things are more precious than gold.

 

Lemonade for SaleLemonade for Sale
by Bettina Ling
With the help of her friends, Kate overcomes several obstacles and sells enough lemonade in the neighborhood park to buy her father a birthday present.

 

Leo And Emily's ZooLeo And Emily's Zoo
by Franz K. Brandenberg
Leo and Emily set up their own zoo. They make people pay to get in. Things don't go well. See who helps them out.

 

Littlejim’s Gift: An Appalachian Christmas StorLittlejim’s Gift: An Appalachian Christmas Story
by Gloria Houston
Hoping to convince his stern father that he will soon be a man, almost-eleven-year-old Littlejim uses his hard-earned savings for his sister’s Christmas gift.

 

Lucky the Golden Goose Lucky the Golden Goose
by John Wrenn
A goose learns to increase his pumpkin seeds (and wealth) by planting more and more pumpkins.

 

 

Making Cents: Every Kids Guide to Money (How to Make It, What to Do With It)Making Cents: Every Kids Guide to Money (How to Make It, What to Do With It)
by Elizabeth Wilkinson
Explores the concept of money and illustrates several way to earn it.

 

 

Mama BearMama Bear
by Chyng Feung Sun
When Mei-Mei fails in her attempt to earn money through a cookie sale for the expensive toy bear she wants for Christmas, her mother helps her see a special gift she has had all along.

 

Matthew and the Midnight Money VanMatthew and the Midnight Money Van
by Allen Morgan
A tale of Matthew’s adventures with the midnight money van man, who is willing to split the proceeds if Matthew helps him clean up.

 

Max Makes a MillionMax Makes a Million
by Maira Kalman
When Max the dog finally sells his book of poetry, he’s able to fulfill his lifelong dream of traveling to Paris.
 

 

Max Malone Makes a MillionMax Malone Makes a Million
by Charlotte Herman
Max Malone and his best friend, Gordy, are continually frustrated in his attempts to get rich, while his neighbor, little Austin Healy, makes money at every turn.

 

Miss Fox’s Class Earns a Fieldtrip
by Eileen Spinelli
Miss Fox's class is back! Now the students want to go to Roller Coaster Planet-and they are determined to earn the money for their trip. But each fund-raising attempt ends in disaster involving Percy P. Possum, the school's visiting author. As the class pays to repair the various mishaps they cause, soon their earnings are going down, not up! How will they ever get to Roller Coaster Planet?

Money, Money, Money: The Meaning of the Art and Symbols on United States Paper CurrencyMoney, Money, Money: The Meaning of the Art and Symbols on United States Paper Currency
by Nancy Winslow Parker
There's a short course in American history in your wallet, and Parker brings it to life by explaining what's on the front and back of U.S. paper currency, from $1 to $100,000.

 

The Money TreeThe Money Tree
by Sarah Stewart
In summer the leaves on the strange tree growing in Miss McGillicuddy's yard are harvested by many people, but when Miss McGillicuddy thinks about needing firewood for the winter, she realizes the tree may have another us.

Money TroublesMoney Troubles
by Bill Cosby
While trying to raise enough money for a telescope, Little Bill finds out about generosity and the needs of others.

 

Monster MoneyMonster Money
by Grace Maccarone
Ten monsters have ten cents apiece to buy a pet in this rhyming story that demonstrates how to count money. Includes math activities.

 


The Monster Money BookThe Monster Money Book
by Loreen Leedy
The members of the Monster Club discuss money and how to manage it.

 

 

Monster Musical Chairs
by Stuart J. Murphy
Every time the music stops, one more monster is OUT! Kids won't be able to sit still for this musical introduction to subtraction at its simplest.

 

Music, Music for EveryoneMusic, Music For Everyone
by Vera B. Williams
Rosa plays her accordion with her friends in the Oak Street Band, earning money to help her mother with expenses while her grandmother is sick.

 

My Rows and Piles of CoinsMy Rows and Piles of Coins
by Tololwa M. Mollel
Saruni saves money he receives from helping his mother work in the marketplace. His goal is to save enough money to buy a bicycle, so that he can better help his mother carry food to the marketplace. He works and saves his money for a long time.

 

Nickels, Dimes and Dollars: How Currency Works Nickels, Dimes and Dollars: How Currency Works
by R.V. Fodor
Basic information on the history of money, supply and demand, the Federal Reserve System, international exchange, inflation, and managing money, including stock investing.

 

No Time For ChristmasNo Time For Christmas
by Judy Delton
Two friends get jobs to buy each other Christmas presents. One works nights and the other works days. They don't see each other anymore.

 

Not So Fast SongololoNot So Fast Songololo
by Niki Daly
A young boy goes with his grandmother to the busy city. He helps her do her shopping. Before they leave, she gets him a nice surprise.

 

One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cents, New CentsOne Cent, Two Cents, Old Cents, New Cents
by Bonnie Worth
The Cat in the Hat studies the history of money--from bartering to today's currency.

 

 

Our Garage SaleOur Garage Sale
by Anne Rockwell
A young boy describes many things in his house and the garage sale that his family has to sell them.

 

 

Ox-Cart ManOx-Cart Man
by Donald Hall
A farm family use their time, energy and talents to grow or make almost everything they need. They also make extra items to sell.

 

 

Papa Lucky’s ShadowPapa Lucky’s Shadow
by Niki Daly
With his granddaughter’s help, Papa Lucky takes his love of dancing out on the street and makes some extra money.

 

Peace Begins With YouPeace Begins With You
by Katherine Scholes
This book explains peace in simple terms. It looks at how conflicts start and how they can be avoided.

 

 

Pedrito's DayPedrito's Day
by Luis Gara
Pedrito works to make money to buy a bicycle to help his mother at the marketplace. He helps his aunt with work, but makes a mistake and looses her money. He then finds a way to fix his mistake.

 

Penny Pot: Counting Coins
by Stuart Murphy
Follow along and count coins with Jessie and her friends as they are transformed into a clown, a monster, and more at the face painting booth.

 

Pigs Will Be PigsPigs Will Be Pigs
by Amy Axelrod
The hungry Pig family learns about money and buying power as they turn their house upside down looking for enough money to buy dinner at the local restaurant.

 

The PurseThe Purse
by Kathy Caple
After spending her money on a purse, Katie is now faced with the problem of getting some money to put into it.

 

Round and Round the Money GoesRound and Round the Money Goes
by Melvin & Gilda Berger
Discusses how the practice of using coins and paper money evolved and explains the circle money travels as it is earned, saved, and spent.

 

Sam and the Lucky MoneySam and the Lucky Money
by Karen Chinn
This year Sam gets to spend his New Year's gift money any way he chooses. Shopping carefully in his favorite Chinatown stores, he is disappointed to find that everything he wants is too expensive. Deciding to forgo a tasty sweet or a new toy for himself, Sam donates his money instead to a barefoot homeless man.

Sheep in a ShopSheep in a Shop
by Nancy Shaw
Sheep hunt for a birthday present and make havoc of the shop, only to discover they haven’t any money to pay for things.

 

Slugger's Car WashSlugger’s Car Wash
by Stuart J. Murphy
When the 21st Street Sluggers, a baseball team, have a car wash to raise money, they learn to keep careful track of their dollars and cents.

 

The Smart Little $aver The Smart Little $aver
by Matt Fuller
Alex and Justin learn the importance of a piggy bank when Alex's dog gets hurt.

 

 

Something GoodSomething Good
by Robert Munsch
Tyya tries and tries to get her father to buy "something good" at the grocery store. After some trouble, Tyya's father buys her for $29.

 

Something Special for MeSomething Special For Me
by Vera B. Williams
Little Rosa has difficulty choosing a birthday present for herself. Knowing that he family has saved the money for a long time makes it difficult to choose a gift – she finally decides on a gift she can share with her family.

Spending Money
by Dana Meachen Rau
This early chapter book teaches the young reader how to spend wisely, using multicultural images, simple diagrams, and a math connection, which is a way for the reader to apply the knowledge he will gain reading this material. The reader will learn about making a budget by planning how much to spend on food and rides at the fair. (Editorial Review)

Summer BusinessSummer Business
by Charles Martin
By running small businesses catering to summer visitors on their island home, Heather and her friends earn enough money for a trip to the Harvest Fair on the mainland.

 

Teddy Bear for SaleTeddy Bear for Sale
by Gail Herman
A teddy bear decides to run away from his store because he’s not wanted, then finds a boy who buys him.
 

 

The TreasureThe Treasure
by Uri Shulevitz
This story is based on an old Hebrew folk tale. Follow Isaac as his dreams lead him on a treasure hunt in the city. He finds no treasure until he returns home.

 

Tight TimesTight Times
by Barbara Shook Hazen
David learns about "tight times" and making hard decisions.

 

 

Uncle Jed's BarbershopUncle Jed’s Barbershop
by Margaree King Mitchell
Despite serious obstacles and setbacks, Sarah Jean’s Uncle Jed, the only black barber in the county, pursues his dream of saving enough money to open his own barbershop.

 

Why Money Was InventedWhy Money Was Invented
by Neale S. Godfrey
Join Penny Bright and the Greenstreet Kids as they find out why money was invented. The adventure starts when they need money to buy ice cream. Their first stop is prehistoric times where they learn about bartering. As they move forward through time they learn more and more about the history of money.

Yard Sale
by James Stevenson
Simsbury is sitting under his favorite tree when a red chair and an accordion pass by, prompting him to get up and take a look at the Mud Flats Yard Sale.

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3-6

A Dollar for PennyA Dollar for Penny
by Julie Glass & Joy Allen
Penny learns about currency when she sets up a lemonade stand to earn money for her mother's birthday card.

 

A Handful of ThievesA Handful of Thieves
by Nina Bawden
When a confidence man steals Fred's grandmother's savings, Fred and his four friends set out to find him and steal it back.

 

A Job for Jenny ArcherA Job for Jenny Archer
by Ellen Conford
Convinced that her family is poor because her parents refuse to get her a horse or a swimming pool, nine-year-old Jenny Archer follows her own path to making money, including a plunge into real estate that puts her home on the market.

A Quarter from the Tooth FairyA Quarter from the Tooth Fairy
by Caren Holtzman
A boy has trouble thinking of ways he can spend the quarter he got from the tooth fairy. He learns about money and the different coin combination that make up a quarter.

 

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
by Mark Twain
In the second chapter, Tom gets out of the boring job of whitewashing the fence. He finds a way to get every boy in town to do it for him.

 

Alexander Who Used To Be Rich Last SundayAlexander Who Used To Be Rich Last Sunday
by Judith Viorst
When Alexander and his money are quickly parted, he realizes how many things a dollar can do.

 

 

All Kinds of MoneyAll Kinds of Money
by David Adler
Discusses the history of money from the mediums of exchange used by primitive societies to the currency, and variations thereof, used in today’s highly complex world.

 

Angelina’s Lucky PennyAngelina’s Lucky Penny
by James Mason & Helen Craig
When Angelina finds a lucky penny, she decides that she no longer needs to practice her ballet.

 

 

Arthur’s Funny Money Arthur’s Funny Money
by Lillian Hoban
When Violet has trouble with numbers and Arthur is penniless, they go into business and solve both of their problems.

 

Arthur’s Pet BusinessArthur’s Pet Business
by Marc Brown
Arthur's determination to prove he is responsible enough to have a puppy brings him a menagerie of animals to care for.

 

Arthur's TV TroubleArthur’s TV Trouble
by Marc Brown
Follow Arthur’s efforts to get money to buy a product he sees promoted on TV. He considers his current savings, tries to get an advance on his allowance, and does jobs in the neighborhood.

 

The Bathwater Gang Gets Down to BusinessThe Bathwater Gang Gets Down to Business
by Jerry Spinelli
When the Bathwater Gang fails to make money with its pet-cleaning business, Bertie comes up with a slightly dishonest idea to ensure success.

 

Blue Denim Blues
by Anne W. Smith
Shy Janet is good with children. She gets a job in day care. She learns about child abuse and overcomes her shyness.

 

Carlos and the CarnivalCarlos and the Carnival
by Jan Romero Stevens
Carlos ignores his father's advice about being careful how he spends his money at the carnival, and soon his pockets are empty.

 

The Case of the Shrunken AllowanceThe Case of the Shrunken Allowance
by Joanne Roeklin
Mike and his friends try to figure out why the money in his allowance jar appears to be shrinking. Includes related math activities.

 

Cash, Credit Cards, or Checks?: A Book about Payment Methods
by Nancy Loewen
A trip for school supplies provides information on various payment methods, including checks, credit cards, debit cards, and cash.

 

Chicken SundayChicken Sunday
by Patricia Polacco
Two brothers and their Polish-American friend want to purchase a special gift for the brothers’ grandmother. Mr. Kodinski suggests they make Psyanky eggs and sell them in his store.

 

Circle of Gold
by Candy D. Boyd
Ten-year-old Mattie copes with the loss of her father and her mixed feelings towards her mother who is under pressure to support the family.

 

Clever CatClever Cat
by Peter Collington
When Mr. and Mrs. Ford discover that Tibbs the cat can get his own food, they give him a house key and a credit card. When the cat begins to use the credit card for fine dining and movies, his card is taken away and the family tells the cat to get a job.

Credit-Card Carole
by Sheila Klass
Carole loves to shop. She runs up a huge credit-card bill. Find out how she takes care of it.

 

 

Eyewitness: Money
by Joe Cribb & Kathleen McDougall
Examines, in text and photographs, the symbolic and material meaning of money, from shekels, shells, and beads to gold, silver, checks, and credit cards. Also discusses how coins and banknotes are made, the value of money during wartime, and how to collect coins.

Finders, Keepers?
by Elizabeth Crary
What would you do if you found something? Finders of lost goods have choices.

 

 

Follow the MoneyFollow the Money
by Lorene Leedy
A freshly minted quarter chattily narrates this lively look at currency including stops at the grocery store and a boy's piggy bank, among other destinations.

 

For RentFor Rent
by Charles E. Martin
Island children spruce up a little shed in a cove and turn it into rental property. They discover that being landlords is hard work but the rent from the shed helps pay for a class trip to Washington DC.

 

Fox on the JobFox on the Job
by James Marshall
Fox tries to earn the money for a new bicycle.

 

 

Freckle Juice
by Judy Blume
Andrew uses five weeks of allowance to buy a secret freckle recipe providing a valuable consumer lesson concerning consumer fraud.

 

The Gift Of The Magi The Gift Of The Magi
by O. Henry
This is a classic tale of love, giving and sacrifice.

 

 

he Giving TreeThe Giving Tree
by Shel Silverstein
This is a sensitive tale of giving (and taking) until there is no more to give — or so it seems.

 

 

The Go-Around Dollar
by Barbara Johnston Adams
A story describing how a single dollar changes hand accompanied by facts about the one-dollar bill.

 

 

Gopher, Tanker And The Admiral
by Shirley Climo
Gopher wants to earn money to buy a bike. He decides to baby-sit for a crabby neighbor who has a broken leg. Together they solve a mystery.

 

How the 2nd Grade Got $8,205.50 to Visit the Statue of LibertyHow the 2nd Grade Got $8,205.50 to Visit the Statue of Liberty
by Nathan Zimelman
The second grade tries a variety of schemes to raise money for a trip to the Statue of Liberty.

 

 

How To Get Fabulously Rich
by Thomas Rockwell
Billy wins a lot of money. Everyone he knows wants some of the money. He wonders if winning was worth it.

 

If You Made A MillionIf You Made A Million
by David M. Schwartz
Describes the various forms money can take, including coins, paper money and personal checks, and how it can be used to make purchases, pay off loans or build interest in the bank.

 

In the Money: A Book about Banking?
by Nancy Loewen
When David goes to work at the bank with his mom, he watches how money travels and what really goes into the vault.  He talks to the tellers and learns about loans.  Discover what Davis likes most about his mom’s job.  It’s more than money!

It's A Habit Sammy Rabbit It's A Habit Sammy Rabbit
by Sam X. Renick
Sammy Rabbit learns to save carrots for a rainy day.

 

 

Jackson Jones and the Puddle of Thorns
by Mary Quattlebaum
When his mother gives him a garden plot for his tenth birthday, Jackson Jones hopes to earn enough money to buy a basketball, but all he seems to get is trouble.

 

Jason And The Money Tree
by Sonia Levitan
Jason plants a ten dollar bill. It grows into a money tree. He gets into some situations that help him learn about life.

 

Jefferson
by Mary Frances Shura
Jefferson's family doesn't have enough money to give him a birthday party. The neighborhood kids earn money for a party.

 

Jelly Beans for Sale Jelly Beans for Sale
by Bruce McMillan
An introduction to counting and numbers features delicious illustrations of colorful jelly beans and clasps of four kinds of coins as well as an informative history of the jelly bean.

 

Jessica and the Money Mix-Up
by Jamie Suzanne
When her father asks her to deliver money to a neighbor down the block, Jessica wants to prove how responsible she is, but she gets sidetracked and the money disappears.

 

Josie’s Troubles
by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Josie and Sarah, two West Virginia fourth-graders, break one of the legs of Sarah's mother's piano bench, and take a series of odd jobs in order to raise the money to repair it.

 

Kids’ Allowance Book
by Amy Nathan
A guide to all aspects of allowances, including how to get one, how to save it, and how to use it wisely.
 

 

Kids Money Book Kids Money Book
by Patricia Byers & Julia Preston
All about money for children.

 

 

King MidasKing Midas
by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This book is based on the Greek legend of King Midas. King Midas was a greedy king who wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. He got his wish, but found out that some things are more precious than gold.

 

The King's Chessboard
by David Birch
A king learns a very important lesson about how quickly money doubles.

 

 

Lemonade for SaleLemonade for Sale
by Bettina Ling
With the help of her friends, Kate overcomes several obstacles and sells enough lemonade in the neighborhood park to buy her father a birthday present.

 

The Lemonade War
by David Page
Pam and Julie open a lemonade stand to earn enough money to buy a video game. They argue over how to advertise, and the lemonade war begins.

 

Lemons and Lemonade: A Book About Supply and Demand
by Nancy Loewen
While Karly is setting up a small business, she consequently learns the laws of supply and demand. Interjections of humor make a dry subject more palatable.

 

Lily and Miss Liberty
by Carla Stevens
A little girl makes crowns and sells them to help raise money for the pedestal needed for mounting France's gift of the Statue of Liberty to this country.

 

Littlejim’s Gift: An Appalachian Christmas StorLittlejim’s Gift: An Appalachian Christmas Story
by Gloria Houston
Hoping to convince his stern father that he will soon be a man, almost-eleven-year-old Littlejim uses his hard-earned savings for his sister’s Christmas gift.

 

Lucky the Golden Goose Lucky the Golden Goose
by John Wrenn
A goose learns to increase his pumpkin seeds (and wealth) by planting more and more pumpkins.

 

 

Lyddie
by Katherine Paterson
In the 1840's a farm girl goes to the city to get a factory job. She works hard to earn money to pay off the debt on the family farm.

 

Make Four Million Dollars By Next Thursday
by Stephen Manes
Jason finds he attracts a lot of attention when he starts following the zany advice in a get-rich-quick book by the bizarre Dr. Silverfish.

 

Making Cents: Every Kids Guide to Money (How to Make It, What to Do With It)Making Cents: Every Kids Guide to Money (How to Make It, What to Do With It)
by Elizabeth Wilkinson
Explores the concept of money and illustrates several way to earn it.

 

 

Mall Mania
by Betsy Haynes
Beth borrows a friend's credit card and goes on a shopping spree at the mall. She gets deeply into debt and must find a way out.

 

Matthew and the Midnight Money VanMatthew and the Midnight Money Van
by Allen Morgan
A tale of Matthew’s adventures with the midnight money van man, who is willing to split the proceeds if Matthew helps him clean up.

 

Max Makes a MillionMax Makes a Million
by Maira Kalman
When Max the dog finally sells his book of poetry, he’s able to fulfill his lifelong dream of traveling to Paris.

 

 

Max Malone Makes a MillionMax Malone Makes a Million
by Charlotte Herman
Max Malone and his best friend, Gordy, are continually frustrated in his attempts to get rich, while his neighbor, little Austin Healy, makes money at every turn.

 

Money, Money, Money: The Meaning of the Art and Symbols on United States Paper CurrencyMoney, Money, Money: The Meaning of the Art and Symbols on United States Paper Currency
by Nancy Winslow Parker
There's a short course in American history in your wallet, and Parker brings it to life by explaining what's on the front and back of U.S. paper currency, from $1 to $100,000.

 

Money TroublesMoney Troubles
by Bill Cosby
While trying to raise enough money for a telescope, Little Bill finds out about generosity and the needs of others.

 

Nickels, Dimes and Dollars: How Currency Works Nickels, Dimes and Dollars: How Currency Works
by R.V. Fodor
Basic information on the history of money, supply and demand, the Federal Reserve System, international exchange, inflation, and managing money, including stock investing.

 

Not for a Billion Gazillion Dollars
by Paula Danziger
Eleven-year-old Matthew, trying desperately to earn enough to buy a coveted computer program, learns the importance of money and eventually starts his own business. Sequel to "Earth to Matthew."

 

Oliver Dibbs to the Rescue
by Barbara Steiner
Oliver and his brother think about ways to earn money. They want to use the money to help protect animals.

 

One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cents, New CentsOne Cent, Two Cents, Old Cents, New Cents
by Bonnie Worth
The Cat in the Hat studies the history of money--from bartering to today's currency.

 

 

Ox-Cart ManOx-Cart Man
by Donald Hall
A farm family use their time, energy and talents to grow or make almost everything they need. They also make extra items to sell.

 

Papa Lucky’s ShadowPapa Lucky’s Shadow
by Niki Daly
With his granddaughter’s help, Papa Lucky takes his love of dancing out on the street and makes some extra money.

 

Peace Begins With YouPeace Begins With You
by Katherine Scholes
This book explains peace in simple terms. It looks at how conflicts start and how they can be avoided.

 

 

Pigs Will Be PigsPigs Will Be Pigs
by Amy Axelrod
The hungry Pig family learns about money and buying power as they turn their house upside down looking for enough money to buy dinner at the local restaurant.

 

Poor Girl, Rich Girl
by Johnniece Marshall Wilson
Miranda tries to make enough money over the summer to get rid of her ugly old glasses so that she can look gorgeous.

 

Project Wheels
by Jacqueline Turner Banks
Angela and her friends raise money. They want to help a classmate buy a wheelchair. Angela begins to see that she and her friends are growing-up.

 

The Rag Coat
by Lauren A. Mills
Minna proudly wears her new coat of clothing scraps to school, where the other children laugh at her until she tells them the stories behind the scraps.

 

Round and Round the Money GoesRound and Round the Money Goes
by Melvin & Gilda Berger
Discusses how the practice of using coins and paper money evolved and explains the circle money travels as it is earned, saved, and spent.

 

Sam and the Lucky MoneySam and the Lucky Money
by Karen Chinn
This year Sam gets to spend his New Year's gift money any way he chooses. Shopping carefully in his favorite Chinatown stores, he is disappointed to find that everything he wants is too expensive. Deciding to forgo a tasty sweet or a new toy for himself, Sam donates his money instead to a barefoot homeless man.

Save, Spend, or Donate?
by Nancy Loewen
Josie and Sam get their allowance every Saturday.  Sam saves his, but Josie spends hers.  A trip to the store makes them both think about saving and spending.  Will they have money left to give away?  Find out in this book about managing money.

Slugger's Car WashSlugger’s Car Wash
by Stuart J. Murphy
When the 21st Street Sluggers, a baseball team, have a car wash to raise money, they learn to keep careful track of their dollars and cents.

 

The Smart Little $aver The Smart Little $aver
by Matt Fuller
Alex and Justin learn the importance of a piggy bank when Alex's dog gets hurt.

 

 

Something Special for MeSomething Special For Me
by Vera B. Williams
Little Rosa has difficulty choosing a birthday present for herself. Knowing that he family has saved the money for a long time makes it difficult to choose a gift – she finally decides on a gift she can share with her family.

Stone Fox
by John Reynolds Gardiner
Will Willy win the dog sled race and the prize money he needs to pay off the back taxes on his grandfather's farm?

 

Summer BusinessSummer Business
by Charles Martin
By running small businesses catering to summer visitors on their island home, Heather and her friends earn enough money for a trip to the Harvest Fair on the mainland.

 

Taxes, Taxes!: Where the Money Goes
by Nancy Loewen
Ms. Colby’s class is learning about taxes – but what are they and why are they so important?  The class get s a special surprise when Todd’s mom arrives.  She works for the IRS.  She explains what taxes are and what that money is used for.

That Costs Two Shells: The History of Money?
by Nancy Loewen
At the library after-school program, there’s a big table with shells, stones animal hides, a basket of wheat, and a necklace made out of beads.  Scott’s confused.  What does this stuff have to do with money?  Join Scott to learn when and why something costs two shells.

Toby the SplendidToby the Splendid
by Leslie Holland
After going against her mother's wishes and buying a horse with her baby sitting money, thirteen-year-old Janet works for his upkeep in the stables but finds she has no extra money for the riding lessons she desperately wants.

 

The Toothpaste Millionaire
by Jean Merrill
Rufus makes his own toothpaste. He starts selling it and makes money. His friends help him make his business something great.

 

The TreasureThe Treasure
by Uri Shulevitz
This story is based on an old Hebrew folk tale. Follow Isaac as his dreams lead him on a treasure hunt in the city. He finds no treasure until he returns home.

 

Ups and Downs: a book about the Stock Market
by Nancy Loewen
Shannon isn’t sure she wants a share of Taco Bill stock for her birthday.  Once Uncle Joe explains what it is and how she can track it, Shannon changes her mind.  Follow Shannon and the stock market in this story of ups and downs.

Uncle Jed's BarbershopUncle Jed’s Barbershop
by Margaree King Mitchell
Despite serious obstacles and setbacks, Sarah Jean’s Uncle Jed, the only black barber in the county, pursues his dream of saving enough money to open his own barbershop.

 

Why Money Was InventedWhy Money Was Invented
by Neale S. Godfrey
Join Penny Bright and the Greenstreet Kids as they find out why money was invented. The adventure starts when they need money to buy ice cream. Their first stop is prehistoric times where they learn about bartering. As they move forward through time they learn more and more about the history of money.

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7-9

A Handful of ThievesA Handful of Thieves
by Nina Bawden
When a confidence man steals Fred's grandmother's savings, Fred and his four friends set out to find him and steal it back.

 

The ABC's of Personal FinanceThe ABC’s of Personal Finance
by John C. Pool & Robert L. Frick
An essential, life-long money management guide that will help the reader make plans and choices to take control of their financial future.


It Happened At Cecilia's
by Erika Tamar
Andy's father is part-owner of a restaurant. Trouble starts when the mob tries to take over.



Jackson Jones and the Puddle of Thorns
by Mary Quattlebaum
When his mother gives him a garden plot for his tenth birthday, Jackson Jones hopes to earn enough money to buy a basketball, but all he seems to get is trouble.

 

Jessica and the Money Mix-Up
by Jamie Suzanne
When her father asks her to deliver money to a neighbor down the block, Jessica wants to prove how responsible she is, but she gets sidetracked and the money disappears.

 

Josie’s Troubles
by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Josie and Sarah, two West Virginia fourth-graders, break one of the legs of Sarah's mother's piano bench, and take a series of odd jobs in order to raise the money to repair it.

 

Kids Guide to MoneyKid’s Guide to Money: Earning It, Saving It, Spending It, Growing It, Sharing It
by Steve Otofinski
Explains ways kids can earn money; how to save for a big purchase; how to get the most value for your money; how the stock market works; plus money moments in history.

 

Kids’ Allowance Book
by Amy Nathan
A guide to all aspects of allowances, including how to get one, how to save it, and how to use it wisely.


 

Lily and Miss Liberty
by Carla Stevens
A little girl makes crowns and sells them to help raise money for the pedestal needed for mounting France's gift of the Statue of Liberty to this country.

 

The Limit
by Kristen Landon
A little girl makes crowns and sells them to help raise money for the pedestal needed for mounting France's gift of the Statue of Liberty to this country.

 

Make Four Million Dollars By Next Thursday
by Stephen Manes
Jason finds he attracts a lot of attention when he starts following the zany advice in a get-rich-quick book by the bizarre Dr. Silverfish.

 

Make LemonadeMake Lemonade
by Virginia Euwer Wolff
LaVaughn needed a part-time job. What she got was a baby-sitting gig with Jolly, an unwed teen mother. With two kids hanging in the balance, they need to make the best out of life -- and they can only do it for themselves and each other.

 

Money Sense for Kids
by Hollis Harman
This book is packed with information to help parents teach their kids the ABCs of personal finance.



The Nickel Plated Beauty
by Patricia Beatty
In the Washington Territory of 1886, the seven resourceful Kimball children devote themselves to earning enough money to buy their mother a new stove.

 

Poor Girl, Rich Girl
by Johnniece Marshall Wilson
Miranda tries to make enough money over the summer to get rid of her ugly old glasses so that she can look gorgeous.

 

Seventeen Against The Dealer
by Cynthia Voight
Dicey uses her money to open a boat shop. When she tries to build her own boat, she ends up in situations she never imagined.

 

Shadow In The North
by Philip Pullman
Sally's business causes a client to lose money. She tries to find out why and is drawn into a complex plot.
 

 

Toby the SplendidToby the Splendid
by Leslie Holland
After going against her mother's wishes and buying a horse with her baby sitting money, thirteen-year-old Janet works for his upkeep in the stables but finds she has no extra money for the riding lessons she desperately wants.

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10-12

The ABC's of Personal FinanceThe ABC’s of Personal Finance
by John C. Pool & Robert L. Frick
An essential, life-long money management guide that will help the reader make plans and choices to take control of their financial future.

 

The Financial Aid Handbook, Getting the Education You Want for the Price You Can Afford
by Ruth Vedvik
In today's tough economy, a college degree is more important--and more expensive--than ever before. The Financial Aid Handbook is the definitive, one-stop guide to the college selection and payment process, covering everything from basic timelines and tuition costs to predicting your scholarship award from colleges and taking ownership of student debt after graduation.

Financial Literacy for TeensFinancial Literacy for Teens
by Chad Foster
The Student Book is a quick, easy read that provides a vital dose of real world wisdom through powerful stories about teens and young adults who have faced financial hardships – some incredibly tragic.

The Limit
by Kristen Landon
A little girl makes crowns and sells them to help raise money for the pedestal needed for mounting France's gift of the Statue of Liberty to this country.


Make LemonadeMake Lemonade
by Virginia Euwer Wolff
LaVaughn needed a part-time job. What she got was a baby-sitting gig with Jolly, an unwed teen mother. With two kids hanging in the balance, they need to make the best out of life -- and they can only do it for themselves and each other.

Money HungryMoney Hungry
by Sharon G. Flake
All thirteen-year-old Raspberry can think of is making money so that she and her mother never have to worry about living on the streets again.

 

The Nickel Plated Beauty
by Patricia Beatty
In the Washington Territory of 1886, the seven resourceful Kimball children devote themselves to earning enough money to buy their mother a new stove.

 

Owen FooteOwen Foote, Money Man
by Martha Weston
Ingenious eight-year-old Owen wants to make money for the things he absolutely needs, such as plastic vomit, but he tries to come up with some alternatives to earning an allowance, which sounds like too much work.

Straight TalkStraight Talk About Money
by Marion B. Rendon & Rachel Kranz
Discusses money, the economy, ways of earning and saving money, and its significance in society.



Young InvestorThe Young Investor
by Katherine R. Bateman
Suggests how to make your money grow, discussing savings, investing, stocks, and the economy.

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Parent Guides

Dollars & Sense For KidsDollars & Sense For Kids
by Janet Bodnar
This book aimed at parents gives advice on choosing an allowance, considering pay-for-chores, dealing with advertising, distinguishing wants from needs, answering questions on family finances, budgeting, and saving.

Dr. Tightwad's Money-Smart KidsDr. Tightwad's Money-Smart Kids: Teach Your Kids Sound Values for Wiser Saving, Earning, Spending and Investing
by Janet Bodnar
Make kids of any age savvy about earning, spending, borrowing, and saving. Covers allowances, shopping, peer pressure, budgeting, saving for college.

Financial Fitness for Life: Parent's Guide - K-5eBook: Financial Fitness for Life: Parent's Guide - K-5
Spanish version: Bienestar Financierp Para Toda La Vida: Guía Para Padres De Familia
The best place for young people to learn about managing money and making spending decisions is within the family. Take your first grader grocery shopping. Show your fourth grader how to pay monthly bills. Each subject area in this eBook provides material for family discussion and an assortment of recommended activities that parents can do together with their kids.

Financial Fitness for Life: Parent's Guide - 6-12eBook: Financial Fitness for Life: Parent's Guide - 6-12
Spanish version: Bienestar Financierp Para Toda La Vida: Guía Para Padres De Familia
The best place for young people to learn about managing money and making spending decisions is within the family. Take your first grader grocery shopping. Show your fourth grader how to pay monthly bills. Each subject area in this eBook provides material for family discussion and an assortment of recommended activities that parents can do together with their kids.

The First National Bank of Dad: The Best Way to Teach Kids About MoneyThe First National Bank of Dad: The Best Way to Teach Kids About Money
by David Owen
The author devised a new way to teach kids about money. In this book he explains how he helped his children become eager savers and rational spenders by setting up his own bank at home and offering a relatively high rate of return on any amount they chose to save. He also describes at length what he feels is the best investment any parent can make for a child-an idea that will surprise most readers.

Kids, Parents and Money: Teaching Personal Finances from Piggybank to PromKids, Parents and Money: Teaching Personal Finances from Piggybank to Prom
by William S. Stawski
This book contains practical and fun strategies that parents can use to teach kids how to be financially savvy and secure.

 

Money Smart KidsKiplinger's Money - Smart Kids: And Parents, Too!
by Janet Bodnar
Whatever their ages, you can still turn your kids into super savers, savvy shoppers and cautious users of credit. Strictly for parents, Bodnar also offers advice on how to identify your "Money Style, " Set limits, and Reaffirm Values you want to share with your children.

Money Smart WomenKiplinger's Money Smart Women: Everything You Need to Know to Acheive a Lifetime of Financial Security
by Janet Bodnar
Janet Bodnar, wife, mother and deputy editor ofKiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine, outlines what every woman needs to know to be financially independent, from breaking out of the paycheck-to-paycheck rut to living comfortably in retirement. This is every woman’s essential guide to financial security.

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees: A Parents Guide to Raising Financially Responsible ChildrenMoney Doesn’t Grow on Trees: A Parents Guide to Raising Financially Responsible Children
by Neale S. Godfrey & Carolina Edwards
This book helps children of all ages learn about earning, saving and spending money. Real-life examples help parents teach values along with money concepts.

 

Money Sense for Kids
by Hollis Harman
This book is packed with information to help parents teach their kids the ABCs of personal finance.


Prodigal Sons and Material GirlsProdigal Sons and Material Girls: How Not to Be Your Child's ATM
by Nathan Dungan
This book was written to help parents influence and shape their child's financial habits. By blending real-world stories with the tools and techniques needed to instill within your children a sense of financial responsibility that will last a lifetime.

Raising Financially Fit KidsRaising Financially Fit Kids
by Joline Godfrey
Godfrey, one of the country's leading experts on kids, parents and money, gives parents the secrets and knowledge she has gleaned for a decade of working with kids on financial literacy and business. At the heart of the books lies 10 specific money skills children can master by the age of 18 to become financially secure adults.

Raising Money Smart KidsRaising Money Smart Kids: What They Need to Know about Money and How to Tell Them
by Janet Bodnar
Bodnar, executive editor of Kiplinger's Personal Finance, provides parents with sensible ways to help children-from toddlers to teenagers-understand the role of money and how it works. She teaches parents how to handle the sticky questions like "Are we poor?" "How much money do you make?" and the inevitable "It's my money, so why can't I spend it the way I want?"

Sesame Street Workshop - Be ResourcefulSesame Street Workshop - Be Resourceful
Economic challenges may involve cutting back on spending, relocating to a more affordable living situation, or taking on additional jobs. As you adjust to new situations, you and your family can find new ways to meet your material and emotional needs and spend quality time together.